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Minor League Report: Steve Holm

Minor League Report: Steve Holm

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By Chris Haft
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MLB.com |

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Guillermo Rodriguez's demotion to Triple-A on Friday left Steve Holm in Major League camp as the only Giants catcher besides Bengie Molina and Eliezer Alfonzo. This is the most extensive look Holm has received, although he's likely to open the season in the Minors -- particularly after Alfonzo buoyed himself with a game-winning single in Friday's 4-3 decision over the Chicago White Sox.

"He's here," Bochy said. "He's done a nice job every time I've put him back there."

Holm, who's batting .235 in 14 games this spring, is entering his eighth season in the Giants' organization. He was named an Eastern League All-Star last year for Double-A Connecticut and finished with a .272 average in 84 games.

Experienced handyman: When Justin Leone played four positions in Thursday's exhibition against the Angels, it was nothing new.

"I've been doing that since I've been here," Leone said.

True enough. With Triple-A Fresno last season, his first in the Giants' organization, Leone appeared in 63 games as an outfielder, 63 at shortstop, 58 at third base -- his primary position -- four at second base and two at first base. Obviously, he played more than one position on multiple occasions.

"I prefer to be able to play everywhere," said Leone, 31. "I have to be more valuable to a team. It's a better situation for me -- and them, as well."

Although the Giants' roster is filled with versatile infielders such as Rich Aurilia, Kevin Frandsen and Eugenio Velez, Leone could be among the first Minor Leaguers considered for a callup if infield reinforcements are needed. He said that he was awaiting a summons to San Francisco before a Major League trade fell through, blocking his promotion.

"Every year I play, I expect to get called up," said Leone, who played in 31 games with Seattle in 2004 and one game with San Diego in 2006.

Cameo appearance: Infielder Emmanuel Burriss, who was reassigned to Minor League camp earlier in the week, returned to start at shortstop in Friday's Major League exhibition against the White Sox. Burriss made a pair of nice plays, including a diving stop of Orlando Cabrera's sixth-inning grounder up the middle.

Keep an eye on: Named Class A (advanced) Relief Pitcher of the Year by MiLB.com after he excelled for San Jose last season, right-hander Sergio Romo made four appearances in Major League exhibitions despite not being invited to camp. Romo recorded a 4.50 ERA while allowing five hits, walking one and striking out four in four innings.

Chris Haft is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.